When it comes to our cars, we often think of them as machines that just need gas and a little TLC now and then. But like any relationship, there are certain things that just don’t mix—like oil and water, or your best friend’s dating life and your honest opinion. The same goes for car fluids. Today, we’re chatting about four car fluids mechanics say you should never, ever mix. Trust me; your car will thank you!

1. Engine Oil and Transmission Fluid

Let’s start with a classic combo that should never see the light of day together: engine oil and transmission fluid. I know, I know, you’re thinking, “How could that be a problem?” Well, here’s the thing—these two fluids serve entirely different purposes. Engine oil lubricates your engine’s moving parts, while transmission fluid keeps your transmission running smoothly. Mixing them can lead to some serious issues, like slipping gears or total transmission failure. Ouch!

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you’ve accidentally mixed these fluids, don’t just shrug it off. Get your car to a mechanic ASAP. It’s like if you mixed your coffee with orange juice—yikes! Not a pleasant outcome.

2. Antifreeze and Water

Next up is the infamous antifreeze and water debate. Now, you might think, “Water’s just water, right?” Well, not quite. While mixing coolant with water might sound innocent enough, it can actually lead to some pretty nasty consequences. Antifreeze is designed to raise the boiling point and lower the freezing point of your engine’s cooling system. If you mix it with too much water, you dilute those properties, making your engine more susceptible to overheating or freezing.

So, what’s the right way to go about it? If you’re topping off your coolant, stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations. And if you happen to be a DIY kind of person, consider buying a pre-mixed coolant solution. It’s like buying a cake mix—much easier than trying to measure ingredients yourself!

3. Brake Fluid and Power Steering Fluid

Now, let’s talk about brake fluid and power steering fluid. You might think they’re just two different types of fluid hanging out in your engine bay, but mixing them is like putting ketchup on a gourmet steak—just a no-go! Brake fluid is hydroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture, while power steering fluid is designed to keep your steering system smooth and responsive.

When these two fluids get cozy, it can lead to a breakdown of your brake system. Imagine trying to stop your car, but your brakes are slipping because of a fluid mix-up. That’s a recipe for disaster, my friend! If you suspect these fluids have crossed paths, get your ride checked out—your safety is always the top priority.

4. Washer Fluid and Oil

This one might sound a bit trivial, but hear me out: mixing washer fluid and oil is a big “no.” It’s not exactly a life-or-death situation like the others, but it can lead to some frustrating problems. Washer fluid’s job is to keep your windshield clear, while oil is, well, oil! If you accidentally mix the two, you could clog your washer nozzles and end up with a streaky windshield. Talk about driving blind!

Plus, who wants to be that person at the gas station trying to fix their windshield wipers while everyone else is just trying to fill up? If you find yourself in this situation, a quick flush of your washer system should do the trick. Just make sure you’re using the right fluid next time—your visibility will appreciate it!

Conclusion: Keep It Clean and Separate

So there you have it—four car fluids that really shouldn’t mix. Your car is a complex machine, and it’s important to keep everything in its own lane. Think of it like a dinner party: you wouldn’t want the spaghetti sauce to invade the dessert table, right? Keeping your fluids separate not only helps your vehicle run smoothly but also saves you from costly repairs down the line.

Next time you’re checking your car’s fluids, remember these tips. And if you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your mechanic. They’re like the wise friends who know all the best secrets—just without the coffee shop gossip! Safe driving out there!